World War II veteran celebrates 108th birthday with loved ones!

The old saying ‘age is just a number’ is more than true for Mr. Tomter.

The western Wisconsin native and Merchant Marine veteran says he’s surprised to still be plugging away, and has been for a while.

“When I sat down at home that evening, at 100, I thought, ‘My God, I’m 100 years old. That’s awful,’” said Tomter.

But still … He persists.

“I’m still doing it, I’m still along, enjoying life,” said Tomter. “Every year I think it’s another gift.”

For Reynolds … It’s a gift of life. But for family and friends – it’s a gift of more time with someone they look up to.

“He wouldn’t say a bad word about anybody,” said Jeff & Dennis, Reynolds’ long-term friends. “Nicest guy. He’s a sweetheart! A lot of words of wisdom come from his mouth.”

And maybe even the secret to making it to 108.

“I’ve been drinking coffee for 106 years,” said Tomter. “Black coffee for 106 years! Still going!”

Reynolds at 108 years old still talks about his days in the service.

And even though he didn’t physically fight, his work was a helping hand to those who did.

“Towards the bottom of the ship, working day after day all day long,” said Tomter. “Making bread, cake, cookies, desserts. So, that was my job for the crew.”

After returning to America, his family was happy to have him back and later be present in his children, grandchildren, and now, great-grandchildren’s lives.

“It’s hard to capture really, the impact that he’s had and what he has seen in his life, if you think about how much the world has changed, but to me he’s always just been my grandpa,” said Beth Warner, Reynolds’ granddaughter.

Beth says her grandpa has been a legendary figure for his family and community.

“His engagement, and the love he gives to others, this is the way people repay him for that,” said Warner. “They want him to know that they care about him and they want to celebrate him.”